A Dream to Call Her Own, part 7

Although Meredith's father was extremely upset by his wayward daughter's behavior, he had informed any who asked that she was visiting a sick aunt and would be there indefinitely.  The fact that she had returned, and in the company of a young man and lady's maid, confirmed to the villagers that she had indeed been visiting her sick relative.  After her father had time to calm his anger towards his daughter, he informed her of the white lie he had fabricated for her.  Meredith was relieved that her father had kept her reputation intact. Thankfully he had thought quickly.  Meredith knew she would have to keep her answers short and sweet concerning her ailing aunt.

As the days passed, Meredith was able to resume her regular life.  After a few days of curt replies from her father, he began to warm to her return and occasionally she saw a small smile on his lips when he looked at her.  Michael had left her town very soon after he had returned her to her father.  Meredith wistfully wished he had stayed a few days more, but she had been burned badly by Darrin, so she did not want to investigate her feelings towards Michael too closely.